Hand-Colored Engraving of the Crested African Crane by Johann Seligmann. ca.1770
€ 660
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Date
1770
Sheet size
37 × 25 cm (14.6 × 9.8 in)
Reference
BG-13945
Condition
good. Vibrant colors, minimal fading. Paper shows light toning and minor foxing. Edges sharp; no tears, no folds. Some handling marks, mostly outside plate-mark, not affecting image quality. Please study the images carefully.
About this sheet
This captivating hand-colored engraving, titled 'Der Gefiederte Afrikanische Kranich', showcases the Crested African Crane (Grus cristata Africana), a bird distinguished by its striking crown of golden feathers. Created by the renowned German natural history illustrator Johann Michael Seligmann, this artwork is part of his famous *Sammlung verschiedener ausländischer und seltener Vögel* (Collection of Various Foreign and Rare Birds), a series that made the works of esteemed naturalists, such as George Edwards, accessible to European audiences in the 18th century.
The plate, numbered "Tab. LXXXVII," features two cranes standing elegantly in a lush landscape, with vivid coloring that highlights their unique feather patterns and elegant stature. The French title, *La Grue Panachée de l’Afrique*, and Latin inscriptions underscore the historical and scientific significance of the piece. Each crane is depicted with exceptional detail, capturing the delicate intricacies of their plumage and posture.
Ideal for collectors of antique ornithological prints or admirers of vintage natural history art, this print exemplifies Seligmann’s dedication to accuracy and beauty in his engravings. His works are highly prized for their artistic charm and scientific fidelity, making this crane illustration a stunning addition to any collection focused on exotic birds.
